Marshawn Lynch

How Paul Richardson will impact the Seahawks offense

In a somewhat surprising move, the Seattle Seahawks took Colorado WR Paul Richardson with the 46th pick in the 2014 NFL draft.

The Seahawks need a receiver after losing Golden Tate to Detroit in free agency. Richardson wasn’t considered a second round pick by most, but Seattle obviously valued his elite speed. Richardson ran a 4.4 40-yard dash at the combine in February.

Richardson combined with a healthy Percy Harvin will add a new dimension to the Seahawks offense. Last year, offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell leaned heavily on RB Marshawn Lynch and defenses tended to load up the box with at least eight defenders to account for the Pro Bowl running back.

With the vertical threats of Richardson and Harvin, teams will find it harder to bring a safety down into the box to defend the run. That could open things up for Lynch; or, if teams continue to load up the box, that will leave opposing cornerbacks on an island against two dangerous receivers with only one safety deep.

Between Harvin and Richardson, the Seahawks are looking to re-locate your safeties to the parking lot.